To prepare for surgery the area around your eyes will be cleaned
and a sterile drape will be applied. Anesthetic eye drops will
be used to numb your eyes then a small instrument will keep you
from blinking during the procedure.

During the first part of LASEK a softening solution is placed on
the cornea. The thin layer of tissue is then lifted up from the
surface of the cornea.

Most people see well enough to drive on the third day
after the
procedure and can resume their normal
activities at that time.

The second step of LASEK is the laser
reshaping which takes just seconds. During this time you will be
asked to look directly at a fixation light in order to
accurately center the laser beam. The Excimer laser will be
programmed with the information gathered in your pre-operative
exam. The entire treatment will be completed in less than a
minute or two, depending on the amount of correction needed.
After the laser reshaping is complete, an extended wear contact
lens is placed on the cornea. This speeds healing and reduces
discomfort.

Following your procedure, you will be given additional eye
drops, and your eyes will be shielded with plastic goggles. Your
vision will be a little blurry so we recommend a driver for the
ride home. You should relax for the rest of the day. Discomfort
may last 2 to 5 days, but is helped with an over-the-counter
pain reliever. It is usual to experience light sensitivity and
tearing of the eyes for a few days after the procedure.

Vision can fluctuate for up to six months, but most people can
see well enough to pass a driver's license vision exam a week or
two after the procedure.